Starting in September, undergrad students studying in any Brock University program will be able to concurrently lay the foundation for a law-related career.

The University has launched Law Plus, a new four-year, non-credit program that will help students gain pre-law knowledge and hands-on experience. It’s modelled on Brock’s highly successful Med Plus program, which has been running for 20 years and a 92 per cent success rate for students landing careers in health-care.

“Similar to Med Plus, being in the Law Plus program will open students’ eyes to a variety of career paths that will use the skills and experiences they’ve gained,” said Cara Krezek, Director, Co-op, Career and Experiential Education. “It’s also about preparing them to write the LSATs, enter law school, and so much more.”

With the Law Plus program set to begin this September, the enrolment deadline for the inaugural year is coming up Monday, April 15. To ensure students get a personalized and enriched experience, the first cohort will be limited to 30 people.

“During their first year, students will begin to network with a variety of career professionals and gain exposure to volunteering with different populations,” said Law Plus Consultant Stacia Heaton. “In future years, they will build on their skills and experiences with continued exposure to law-related professions, job shadowing, ethics forums and more.”

In addition to their undergrad studies, the Law Plus students will spend between five and seven hours each week attending skill-based workshops, learning from guest speakers and participating in volunteer placements with community organizations.

“We’re preparing them for careers they’re passionate about and helping them develop the skills and knowledge they require,” said Krezek.

Like Med Plus, Law Plus is open to all Brock students, regardless of which undergraduate degree they’re working toward.

“The program aims to have students from all Faculties who will bring a variety of interests to the table, which will enrich the experience for everyone,” Heaton said.

Advising Brock on the new program has been an industry panel that includes lawyers, community organization representatives and faculty members.

“Having the industry so invested and enthused about Law Plus is fantastic. They’re helping to shape the program and move it forward,” Heaton said. “They will also have the partnerships and relationships that will help us develop placements that students will be able to engage in.”

For more information on the new Law Plus program, visit Brock’s Co-op, Career and Experiential Education website.